National Bittersweet Chocolate Day is January 10th in the United States, but it can be any day of the year if you are a chocolate lover! Chocolate has been around for thousands of years, and has taken many forms. It has been so revered throughout time, that the Mayans actually used it as currency. Later, it was introduced to the world by Spanish explorers. Bittersweet chocolate is typically used in baking cakes, cookies, hot chocolate and much more. The main ingredients are chocolate liquor (ground or melted nib of the cacao bean, containing equal parts cocoa butter and solids), a little bit of sugar, vanilla and sometimes lecithin. It usually contains more liquor than semi-sweet chocolate. Bittersweet chocolate is a great source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium. Interestingly, it is also said that it can help prevent cavities and strengthen tooth enamel. Next time you need something sweet, put down that sweet chocolate bar, grab a rich bittersweet bar and enjoy some of the benefits.

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